During neurodevelopment, synaptic connections are built and remodeled through the coordinated actions of neurons and glia. Dysregulated circuit formation results in neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, and epilepsy. Our goal is to define the molecular signals underlying synapse formation and activity-dependent refinement. We focus on circuit remodeling during developmental windows of particularly high plasticity, so-called critical periods. To tackle these fundamental questions, we employ a combination of CRISPR-based genome engineering, high-resolution imaging, and behavioral assays.
The Broihier Laboratory 